Ellen Mary Demers

Ellen Mary Demers, 58 years old, of Tampa, Florida, passed away peacefully at home on February 18, 2023, after a brave but brief battle with cancer. Ellen was born on June 1, 1964, to David Earl Smith Jr. and Eleanor Smith (nee Edwards) in Tampa, Florida.

In 1993, this true southern girl fell in love with and married her “yankee” husband Matthew Demers. For 29 years, they made their home in South Tampa, where Ellen’s love of nature and gardening flourished.

Her garden became an oasis for birds, bees, butterflies, and many other creatures to frolic and raise their families. In addition to her garden, she was a dedicated animal lover, focused on adopting older, unwanted dogs and cats who needed love, affection and a safe home to forget about their past to live their best life.

While a self-described marshmallow, she would fiercely defend those who could not defend themselves, especially animals. She also loved a good hockey fight when watching the Lightning.

A private person by nature who loved to cook, decorate, read, watch Jeopardy and complete crosswords, she maintained a small but close group of friends, only letting a few catch a glimpse of the beauty of her heart.

Music was the vehicle to her soul; the poetry of artists like Bruce Springsteen & Joni Mitchell touched her deeply, shaping her approach to life and love.

In addition to her devoted husband, Ellen is survived by her fur-babies Suzy, Bunty & Elmo, sisters Kathy Smith & Laura Mathis, and brother Grant Smith.

A celebration of life for Ellen will be held Saturday, March 4, 2023 from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Blount & Curry FH-Macdill Chap, 605 S MacDill Ave, Tampa, FL 33609.

In lieu of flowers consider a charitable donation to Pawlicious Poochie Pet Rescue in St. Petersburg, the SPCA of Tampa Bay in Largo, or the Humane Society of Tampa Bay in Tampa.